Birth Defects In Babies: Can They Be Prevented?

Do you know? About 1 in 33 babies are born with birth defects! To an expectant parent, this number may sound scary. But the good news is, there are many steps you can take to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

In this blog, we’ll uncover everything you need to know about birth defects. And you’ll also learn what you can do to minimise the risk of these defects in your baby. 

So let’s get started.

What Is A Birth Defect?

Birth defects are abnormalities that develop in babies while they are still developing in their mother’s womb. Some defects may affect their appearance while others cause functional changes or abnormalities..

Birth defects can range from mild to severe, and in some cases be life-threatening. Such babies only survive a few months after they’re born.

A Few Examples Of Birth Defects

Here’s a list of a few common birth defects:

• Cleft Palate: An opening in the roof of the mouth.
• Short Height: A lower-than-average height.
• Congenital Heart Conditions: A problem with the baby’s heart.
• Down Syndrome: A chromosomal abnormality leading to poor mental & physical development.
• Sickle Cell Anaemia: The malformation of RBCs into a sickle shape, affecting their ability to flow in blood vessels.
• Clubfoot: An inward and downward twisted foot.
• Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: A group of physical, mental and behavioural problems in babies that occur due to prenatal alcohol exposure.
• Spina Bifida: A gap in the baby’s spine.

How Common Are Birth Defects?

Birth defects are quite common. About 3-4% of babies are born with some kind of birth defect.

Is It Okay To Use The Term “Birth Defect”?

It is medically accurate to call these developmental problems as birth defects. But it’s not apt to call those affected as ‘defective’. It’s important to be mindful and sensitive.

Alternatively, you can also refer to these problems as congenital (since birth) abnormalities,

congenital conditions, or physical malformations.

Birth Defects Symptoms

The symptoms of birth defects might be noticed during pregnancy or after the child is born.

During pregnancy, a screening test may detect the following signs:

• Higher or lower than normal protein levels in maternal blood.
• Presence of extra fluid behind the fetus’s neck in a sonogram.
• Detection of structural abnormalities in the fetus’s internal organs during a fetal echocardiogram.

The symptoms of birth defects in babies include:

• An abnormal heart rhythm.
• Breathing difficulties.
• No response to loud noise or being called out.
• Not able to follow an object with their eyes when shown.
• Unique appearance of head, face, eyes, ears or mouth.
• Developmental delays.
• Being irritable.

4 Causes Of Birth Defects

Birth defects can be attributed to several possible causes. These include:

Genetic Changes

About 20% of all birth defects are caused by genetic changes. A normal human body has 23 pairs of chromosomes. Each chromosome contains genes which carry instructions for the development of the entire body. So having too many or too few chromosomes can cause incorrect information to be relayed to the body. Some of these chromosomal abnormalities are caused by:

• Too Many Chromosomes: When there is an extra copy of a particular chromosome. Example: Down Syndrome (extra copy of chromosome 21).
• Missing Chromosomes: When a part or an entire chromosome is missing. Example: Turner Syndrome (missing or partial X chromosome).
• Deleted Chromosomes: When there is the deletion of a part of a chromosome. Example: Prader-Willi syndrome (missing information on chromosome 15).
• Relocated Chromosomes: When a part of the chromosome moves around and attaches to some other chromosome. Example: Smith-Magenis syndrome (deletion of small piece of chromosome 17)

Medication Side Effects

Exposure to certain medications during pregnancy can cause birth defects in the fetus. A few of these medicines include:

• Isotretinoin
• Antiepileptic medications
• Lithium
• Warfarin

So if you’re pregnant or planning to conceive, make sure you inform your doctor about the medications. They can suggest if the ones you are taking are safe or not. And they can also suggest better alternatives according to your condition.

Exposure To Chemicals

Exposure to certain chemicals or drugs during pregnancy can also cause birth defects in babies. The common harmful substances include:

• Alcohol
• Addictive substances like caffeine and drugs
• Pesticides or herbicides
• Pollutants

Pregnancy Complications

Birth defects can also occur in children of women who experience certain pregnancy complications. Examples of such complications are:

• Infections: Infections like toxoplasmosis and cytomegalovirus during pregnancy may increase the chances of birth defects in babies. 
• Uterine Constraint: Birth defects can also occur when the fetus has limited space inside the womb and the amniotic sac ruptures.
• Insufficient Amniotic Fluid: Lack of amniotic fluid around the fetus may compress its lungs and cause birth defects.

Risk Factors For Birth Defects

Certain factors may increase the risk of giving birth to a baby with birth defects. A few of these factors include:

• Diabetes or high blood sugar.
• Obesity.
• Parents’ age over 35 years.
• A family history.
• Substance-use disorder.
• Taking certain medications.

How Are Birth Defects Diagnosed?

Your doctor can diagnose birth defects during pregnancy or after your baby is born when the symptoms become apparent.

What Tests Diagnose Birth Defects?

The diagnostic tests for birth defects include blood tests and ultrasound. They are conducted during the first trimester to detect protein levels and fetal DNA and look for extra fluid behind the fetus’ neck. In the second trimester, these tests are done to detect chromosomal conditions and the fetus's size.

If these screening tests detect abnormalities, the doctor conducts a few more tests like amniocentesis, fetal MRI, fetal ECG and placenta sampling.

Is There A Cure For Birth Defects?

Sadly, there is no cure for most birth defects. However, there are treatments that revolve around taking care of the symptoms of these birth defects.

In some cases, the child is treated with medicines, physical therapy or surgery. At other times, a more holistic approach such as giving them special education may be recommended.

Children with birth defects also benefit from supportive devices like hearing aids, glasses, a brace or a wheelchair.

Can Birth Defects Be Prevented?

Most birth defects cannot be prevented. But you can take the following steps to support a healthy pregnancy:

• Schedule regular prenatal appointments with your doctor.
• Take prenatal supplements if you’re trying to conceive.
• See your doctor as soon as you discover that you’re pregnant.
• Consult your doctor about any medicines or supplements you might be taking during pregnancy.
• Stop drinking alcohol.

When To See Your Doctor

If your child shows any signs of birth defects, you must see your doctor. Also make sure to keep track of your child’s developmental milestones according to their age. And if you notice that they’re missing any, reach out to your doctor immediately.

Final Thoughts

You can’t prevent or cure most birth defects. But you can minimise your risk by following a good pregnancy care routine. A healthy lifestyle, regular checkups, and timely medical advice can make all the difference. And if something feels off, do not delay visiting your doctor. 

Also, to make sure that your baby has a healthy future, don’t forget to opt for cord blood banking. Bank your baby’s stem cells at the time of birth and safeguard them against the impact of 80+ diseases for years to come. 

Want to know how it works? Get a free presentation from a LifeCell expert today. Call 1800 266 5533 now!

FAQs

How To Reduce The Risks Of Birth Defects During Pregnancy?

Taking prenatal supplements, attending regular checkups, and avoiding alcohol or harmful substances can lower the risk of birth defects in your baby.

Who Is At Risk For Birth Defects?

You are at a higher risk of having a baby with birth defects if you are over 35, have a family history of birth defects, and drink alcohol or do drugs.

Are Dimples Birth Defects?

No, dimples are not considered as birth defects.